Dragon U-2

The Dragon U-2 program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on enhancing the capabilities of the U-2S Dragon Lady aircraft. This platform plays a crucial role in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, supporting both peacetime and wartime operations for Combatant Commands and the Intelligence Community. The program's objectives include supporting Sensitive Reconnaissance Operations as outlined in the National Defense Strategy, as well as other critical missions such as Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response and treaty verification through the OLIVE HARVEST mission.

A key goal of the Dragon U-2 initiative is to advance sensor development, particularly through projects like ASARS-2C, which aim to improve radar capabilities against emerging threats. The program also supports experimental efforts related to Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) and Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS), serving as a platform surrogate for risk reduction. These efforts align with the Secretary of the Air Force's Operational Imperative-2 and contribute to Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations technology development.

There has been a shift in priorities, with resources being redirected to support ASARS-2C testing and evaluation. This transition is intended to enhance data collection capabilities during the remaining operational period of the U-2 platform. Additionally, ongoing efforts focus on modernizing avionics systems and data links, ensuring compliance with Open Mission Systems standards and improving communication systems' sustainability.

As part of its acquisition strategy, the Dragon U-2 program evaluates modification and enhancement needs based on current activities. Planned developments include avionics technical refreshes and integration of advanced radar systems. However, these initiatives will conclude in FY 2025 in anticipation of the U-2's divestiture in FY 2026, marking a significant transition in how these ISR capabilities will be managed moving forward.